New research out reveals that the time spent travelling for business has decreased for the first time in three years…
New research out reveals that the time spent travelling for business has decreased for the first time in three years, according to the annual Barclaycard Business Travel Survey. A quarter of workers who travelled less in 2003/04 than the previous year attribute this decline to the introduction of new technology, reducing their need for as many face to face meetings.
The survey by Barclaycard Business also indicates that lifestyle choices made by employees had a significant effect, as 19% were travelling less due to a new job and 18% due to improvements in work life balance. Just 13% stated cost as a factor.
Further findings:
- The average number of days spent travelling for business has fallen from 2.7 days per week to 2.5
- Average nights spent away from home each month has decreased from 4.4 to 4.1
- The average number of miles travelled per person has decreased by 31% to 642
Business travellers who are on the move cite an increase in business expansion overseas as the main reason:
- Business expansion overseas 32% (24% in 03/04)
- Business expansion in the UK 23% (down by 5% from 03/04)
- To generate new business 19% (the same as 03/04)
- New job 9% (down from 14% in 03/04)
- Growing need for face-to-face meetings 8%
- Conferences / exhibitions 5%
- Other 4%
Tim Carlier, Head of Card Issuing at Barclaycard Business, comments: The research appears to endorse many employers who are managing to both give their staff a healthy work-life balance, as well as increasing business expansion both in the UK and overseas.
Now in its ninth year, the Barclaycard Business Travel Survey is recognised for providing the industry with an annual insight into the lifestyles, travelling patterns and demands of today`s professionals.
Profile of the 2004/5 business traveler
The typical male business traveller is aged between 41- 65, and is married with children. He has a managerial position in a company with a turnover in excess of
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